The grant application process was highly competitive: only 15 of 99 applicants nationwide were funded, and the Preservation Society's proposal received "excellent" ratings from all five independent reviewers--the highest possible. In a letter of support addressed to the NEH, US Congressman David Cicilline called the Preservation Society "an invaluable resource to our community." Also writing a letter of support was US Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who wrote "Funding this project will allow the Preservation Society to provide the public with an enhanced interpretation of Newport's rich historic legacy."

Preservation Society's Fellows Program

"The Fellows Program is a key priority for us," said Preservation Society CEO & Executive Director Trudy Coxe. "These scholars will conduct original research that enhances the interpretation and deepens the content of the Preservation Society’s tours and programs, and add to the body of scholarship on Newport, one of the oldest and most historically intact cities in the nation."

The Fellows Program will provide valuable training and publication opportunities for emerging scholars in the humanities. Each year five fellows will be selected through a competitive process for one-year appointments. During their tenure they will conduct original research; engage in a lively series of public programs; and produce books, journal articles, and web-based materials. Fellows will be housed and work in The Elms Scholars Center, to be created in the historic Carriage House of The Elms (1901) which will be renovated to provide living and research space.

The $500,000 award from the NEH will be used to establish an endowment to support stipends and other costs of the Fellows Program. The Preservation Society has five years to raise the required 3 to 1 match, or $1.5 million, to receive the full award.